It’s not hard for a pump station to cease working for it to become troublesome. It can still transfer water or wastewater every day and yet be unable to cope with periods of high demand, need frequent maintenance or rely on control systems which are becoming more difficult to maintain. It might still function but the initial model of the equipment may not reflect current conditions.

Image credit: romtecutilities.com

For municipalities, developers, and facility managers, understanding that difference is an important part of planning improvements to infrastructure.

Look Beyond the Equipment That’s Failing

A wastewater lift station retrofit should begin with an assessment of the complete system, not simply the pump experiencing problems. Engineers must assess the wetwell, mechanical equipment and electrical components. They must also take into consideration discharge piping and the current needs for pumping.

The state of the wet well is vitally important. If its structure is in good condition it might be suitable to keep it even as a replacement for outdated equipment. Costs for construction could be reduced in comparison to building a new station. It is important to keep existing infrastructure in case improvements can be made.

Has the service area changed?

An old wastewater station may be supplying additional residential, industrial or commercial properties.

These changes can alter flow rates and operational demands. To ensure that lift stations are successfully rehabilitated, it is not enough to revert back to original specifications. Engineers should evaluate the flow rates and expected flows, as well as the equipment’s capacity and dependability.

It’s not enough to just buy a larger pump. The new equipment has to work alongside existing piping systems wet well, electrical supply, and control. If one component is improved, it can cause problems with other components.

Stormwater Retrofits have Different Priorities

A retrofit of a stormwater pumping station involves additional considerations since runoff can change dramatically with rainfall and surrounding development. The flow pattern at a station that serves a detention area may differ from one that is receiving water directly through the storm drain. New pavement, expanded parking spaces, or a change in drainage infrastructure could alter the amount and timing of runoff that reaches the station.

Before recommending a change to an emergency pump station for stormwater engineers should look at the contributing drainage area. They should also consider the anticipated peak flows in the area, storage capacity and discharge conditions.

These findings can help determine the extent to which modernization of equipment is sufficient or if a station requires more extensive reconstruction.

Plan the Construction Before Interrupting Service

What the station’s capabilities will be during rehabilitation is a question that is often ignored. The wastewater systems are generally not able to be removed without a plan for ongoing flow control.

In accordance with the space available and the project’s requirements the construction could involve temporary bypass pumping or an alternative infrastructure along the existing station.

It is also important to prepare for stormwater projects, as the system may be needed in the event of a sudden rainstorm. The engineering plans must include the installation sequence as well as temporary operations and equipment integration.

The final System is more user-friendly

Romtec Utilities provides site-specific engineering and supply solutions for wastewater and stormwater pumping applications.

The retrofit approach determines which structural, electrical mechanical, communication and structural components will be preserved and which require replacement. The company gives owners initial plans and estimates of budgets for them to evaluate their project options.

After installation, startup tests testing, operator training and commissioning are crucial to ensure that the upgraded station is performing according to the specifications. The successful rehabilitation process should provide operators with a station they can manage and comprehend.

Improve the System, Not Just Its Age

A pump station that is older may not need to be replaced completely. It’s possible that structures will remain functional for a long time even if mechanical and electrical systems require modernization. It is important to know the elements that can be effectively preserved while ensuring the station is able to meet current and future demands.

Through analyzing operating conditions, structural integrity, hydraulic requirements and the construction limitations together owners can make better informed investment decisions.

It’s not only about making an old station work again. The objective is to ensure that the updated system can handle the upcoming work.